Learning to love radically. World changer.

About

Hey, fam. The name’s Donaven Blake Smith. I’m 23-years old and am currently an online psychology student at the University of Colorado Denver. I am an incredibly empathetic human and animal rights activist, mental health advocate, and musician, passionate about righting the wrongs within our society.

“The end of all education should surely be service to others.” –Cesar Chavez

My long-term goals include finishing my undergraduate degree (December 2019, baby!) and immediately pursuing a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) from a reputable graduate school. I have my eyes on Washington University, the University of Denver, Boston College, and Columbia University. I intend to earn the title of Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) to one day serve as the clinical director of a dual-diagnosis treatment center. In addition to my passion for supporting those in recovery from addiction and mental illness, I am an ardent advocate for LGBTQ+ youth.

The populations I’ll work with are people with stories and struggles similar to mine. I’ll always be transparent about my recovery from addiction until the day that I die.

I grew up in a Marine Corps family, which not only granted me the opportunity to attend high school in Okinawa, but allowed for me to develop a culturally sensitive and broad worldview, as well (Europe is next on my travel plans).

Here’s a picture of my family. I’m the brown kid rocking the bow-tie and gray cardigan on the right. I’m the proud brother of the girl behind me and my parents are the lovely, biracial couple on the left.

I write music, play piano, and sing. But if you’ve clicked around this website, you probably already know that.

If you want to know more about me, there’s an Ask Me Anything page where you can do exactly that: ask me anything. Also, when leaving a comment anywhere on my website, I don’t require your name or your email. Although I would appreciate names, if the situation requires that you keep it anonymous, do it. Live your dreams.

Thanks for checking up on me. I’ll continue being honest as long as there’s someone out there who will listen. I must fight in the open. Keep moving forward and remember that you are loved.